General Motors (GM) is a maker of some of the longest-lasting trucks and SUVs on the planet. Moreover, they pride themselves on producing ultra-spacious barns on wheels culminating in the beloved Suburban. The seven or eight-seater family hauler has been around since the mid-1930s, and GM has improved the platform ever since. However, a few examples pose more problems than the average owner wants to deal with. While some may be searching for a used 2007 Chevrolet Suburban on the second-hand market, there’s one big reason to avoid it.

Used 2007 Chevrolet Suburbans chug oil

In 2007, the first year of the tenth-generation Suburban featured a throwback to the boxy style. Large and roomy as always, it also provided owners with plenty of power. GM did away with the LM7 version of their bulletproof third-generation 5.3-liter V8 for an update. The outgoing engine had 295 horsepower and 325 pounds-feet of torque. The LY5 replacement gained 25 horsepower and 15 pounds-feet of torque.

Power increases aside, there was a significant issue with the new V8. Owner entries on CarComplaints paint a picture of excessive oil consumption. With as little as 30,000 miles on the clock, a 2007 Chevrolet Suburban will begin chugging oil. Some owners say they must put one quart of oil in the engine every time they fill up. Interestingly, there doesn’t seem to be an issue with oil leaks, with most used 2007 Chevrolet Suburban owners claiming the ground underneath the V8 is typically dry.

Is there a way to fix the problem?

Some claim the issue is caused by the Active Fuel Management (AFM) system. Reportedly, the AFM valve can become uncovered, leading to rising oil consumption. However, only a handful of used 2007 Chevrolet Suburbans could be fixed in such a manner.

Despite the oil consumption issue being covered under a factory warranty, many mechanics have told customers that they need replacement engines. One owner describes their estimated cost of repair at $9,000, even before their SUV reached 100,000 miles. A few others have gotten away with replacement cylinder heads, but most never found resolutions. Unfortunately, the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration never recalled the Suburban for the issue.

Are there good alternatives to a used 2007 Chevrolet Suburban?

According to owner entries, GM seemed to get a hold of the excessive oil consumption in the 5.3-liter V8 by the 2010 model year. But it’s still present through the 2013 model year. Otherwise, the 2008 and 2009 model year Suburban SUVs have the same pressing issue as serious as the 2007 Suburban. In those years, it’s the most complained about the problem.

As some know, the first year of a vehicle’s redesign is often plagued with issues. The 2007 Chevrolet Suburban is no different. For those who like the looks of the tenth-generation Suburban, the further away from 2007, the better. Realistically, potential buyers should hunt for one built after the 2010 model year. Given their age, there’s not much of a price difference between a used 2007 Chevrolet Suburban and newer model years.